Image: Clair Strong Interior Design
We have an excellent antiques scene here in the UK. If you know where to look, what to look for and how to buy, you can score something truly special.
Mixing the old with the new can truly elevate a space, effortlessly lending it warmth and character. And yet, according to a survey conducted by The Art & Antiques Fair, Olympia approximately 62% of people don’t own as many antiques as they would like. Why? Because shopping for second hand treasures can feel intimidating and expensive. A lot of shoppers are put off antiquing because they don’t consider themselves experts. And many people lack the confidence to negotiate an acceptable price. It is my hope that this two-part guide will provide all the information you need to shop confidently in any situation.
So… where do we start?
Do Your Homework
There’s nothing much wrong with going to an antiques shop and picking out something you like, just because you like it. You don’t have to be an expert on any particular style or era, especially if you’re buying for yourself. However, there are benefits to having at least a little bit of knowledge behind you.
There’s a wealth of information online and in books, but you can also learn a lot by talking to other buyers. Research will help you find a style you like (and can afford) and will ensure you know what to look for in a piece. It will help you determine quality, and spot if something’s genuine or a reproduction. Finally, if you know what you’re buying, you’ll know what it is worth and won’t pay over the odds for it.
Fair, Auction or Bricks and Mortar Shop?
As previously mentioned, the antiques scene in the UK is thriving. There is always a fair, auction or store to visit. Not to mention the online opportunities for shopping.
As a newcomer, the least intimidating and most exciting place to start is a fair. If you go to a big one, like the annual Art and Antiques Fair held at London Olympia, you can shop for antiques from a wide range of dealers, at a wide range of prices. From £100 to £1 million, you’ll see some really exquisite pieces. And you’ll likely come away with a bargain of your own.
Auctions are not for the faint-hearted. You need to know exactly what you’re buying and set yourself a price limit. It’s easy to get caught up in the moment and go overboard. You can find some really exciting pieces, however, so they’re always worth a look. Remember: the price of the item is not the final price you pay. Many auction houses add a ‘Buyers Premium’ which can be anything up to 20% of the sale price.
Shops are great; they’re usually independently run by someone really passionate about antiques and the stock is constantly changing. Pottering around an antiques shop is definitely one of the nicer ways to spend a quiet Saturday afternoon. If you build up a rapport with the seller and learn to negotiate, you can often get a good deal. But you need to return regularly, particularly if there’s something specific you want to buy.
Come back next week for Part 2, where we’ll have some tips on haggling and a list of Bath’s best antiquing spots.
